pete's stuff

Questions

• Is it acceptible to manipulate stem cells in any way?
  • What if using the embryo to create stem cells could save a person's life?
  • Would it be okay if the embryos were extra (from a fertility clinic) and were going to die anyway?
  • Is it acceptible to create embryos specifically for the purpose of stem cell research?

• Stem cell research is happening in other countries - should we do it too to stay ahead?

• If stem cell research could lead to human cloning, should we pursue it?
  • If we decide to go ahead with stem cell research, should we make research into cloning illegal?

• when does an embryo become alive?
  • 4 weeks: tissues specialize
  • 6 weeks: heartbeat detected
  • 20 weeks: nervous system begins to function
  • 24 weeks: responds to sounds
  • further: continues to grow